Yes, you can open most checking accounts entirely online, but banks have different requirements and some still ask you to verify in person

Most major banks and many smaller ones let you start a checking account from your computer or phone without visiting a branch. The process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes, and you can begin using the account within one to three business days. However, some banks require you to verify your identity in person at a branch or through a video call, and a few still ask you to mail in documents or visit in person to complete the account.

The speed and ease depend on which bank you choose and what documents you have ready. Banks need to confirm who you are under federal law, so they will ask for your Social Security number, date of birth, and address. Some will check this information instantly against databases they subscribe to. Others will ask you to upload a photo of your driver's license or passport, or to answer security questions based on your credit history.

Key Takeaways

  • Most banks complete online account openings in 10 to 20 minutes, though you may not be able to use the account for one to three business days while the bank verifies your identity.
  • You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, current address, and a valid photo ID to open an account online at most banks.
  • Some banks require you to verify your identity through a video call or in person at a branch, which can add one to five business days to the process.
  • Banks check your history with ChexSystems or Early Warning Services; if you have been flagged in those systems, some banks will deny your application or require additional steps.
  • You can fund your new account by transferring money from another bank account, depositing a check by phone camera, or waiting for a direct deposit to arrive.

What you need to have ready before you start

Gather these items before you begin: your Social Security number, a current government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card), your current address, and your phone number. If you want to fund the account right away, also have the routing and account number from another bank account you own, or a check you can photograph.

Some banks ask for additional information depending on your situation. If you are self-employed or a business owner, they may ask for your Employer Identification Number (EIN) or business license. If you have lived at your current address for less than two years, they may ask for a previous address. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will need a valid visa or passport showing your immigration status.

Have your phone nearby. Many banks send a one-time code to your phone to verify you are the person opening the account, and some require a video call to confirm your identity in real time.

How the online verification process works at different banks

Instant verification is the fastest route. You enter your personal information, the bank checks it against databases it subscribes to (usually Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion), and you get approval in minutes. Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and most large national banks use this method. You can usually start using your account the same day or the next business day.

Photo ID upload is the next tier. You take a photo of your driver's license or passport with your phone, upload it to the bank's website or app, and the bank's software reads and verifies it. This usually takes a few minutes to an hour. Smaller banks and online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover often use this method. You may be able to use your account within one business day.

Video verification requires you to schedule a call with a bank representative or use an automated video system. You show your ID to the camera, answer questions about your identity, and the representative or system confirms you are who you say you are. This can happen immediately if you call during business hours, or within one to two business days if you schedule it for later. Some banks like Chime and SoFi offer video verification as an option to speed up the process.

In-person verification means you must visit a branch or bank office to open the account. A few banks still require this, especially if you are opening a business account or if the bank flagged your application for review. This adds one to five business days depending on your schedule and the branch's hours.

What happens if the bank flags your application

Banks use two main systems to check your history: ChexSystems and Early Warning Services. These are not credit bureaus — they track how you have managed bank accounts, not your credit score. If you have closed accounts with unpaid fees, bounced checks, or fraud reports, you may be flagged in one of these systems.

If you are flagged, the bank will either deny your application outright or ask you to take additional steps. Some banks will ask you to pay any outstanding fees or negative balances from a previous account before they open a new one. Others will require you to verify your identity in person or through a video call. A few will simply deny you and suggest you try again after a certain amount of time has passed.

You have the right to know if you are in ChexSystems or Early Warning Services. You can request your report for free from both systems. If there is an error in your report, you can dispute it. This can take 30 to 60 days to resolve, but it may help you open an account at a bank that would otherwise deny you.

How long until you can actually use the account

There is a difference between opening the account and being able to use it. You may be able to see your account number and routing number within minutes of finishing your application, but the bank may not let you transfer money out or write checks for one to three business days while it completes its verification process.

Depositing money into the account is usually faster. Most banks let you deposit checks by taking a photo with your phone within hours of opening the account. Direct deposits from your employer can be set up immediately, though the actual money may not arrive until your next pay cycle. Transfers from another bank account you own may take one to three business days to complete.

If you need to use the account right away, ask the bank during the application process how long you will have to wait before you can withdraw money or write checks. Some banks will let you do this immediately if you pass instant verification. Others will make you wait until the next business day.

Banks that let you open accounts entirely online without video or in-person steps

These banks complete the entire process online with no video call or branch visit required, assuming you pass instant verification:

  • Chase — Most checking accounts can be opened online in about 10 minutes. You need a Social Security number and photo ID. The account is usually ready to use the next business day.
  • Bank of America — Online opening takes about 10 minutes. You can use the account the same day in most cases.
  • Wells Fargo — Online opening takes about 15 minutes. You can use the account the same day or next business day.
  • Ally Bank — Online-only bank with no branches. Opening takes about 10 minutes and uses photo ID upload. Account is usually ready within one business day.
  • Charles Schwab — Online opening with photo ID upload. Takes about 15 minutes and account is ready within one business day.
  • Discover Bank — Online opening with photo ID upload. Takes about 10 minutes and account is ready within one business day.

Smaller regional banks and credit unions vary widely. Some let you open accounts entirely online; others require a video call or in-person visit. Call or check the bank's website before you start the application to find out what their process is.

What to do if your online application is denied

If a bank denies your application, ask why. The bank must tell you the reason — it may be a ChexSystems flag, a credit report issue, an address verification problem, or something else. If the reason is a mistake in your ChexSystems or credit report, you can dispute it with the reporting agency.

If you have been denied because of ChexSystems, try a bank that does not use ChexSystems or that is more lenient with applicants who have flags. Some banks and credit unions specialize in second-chance accounts for people with banking history issues. These accounts may have higher fees or lower initial deposit limits, but they are a real option if you have been turned down elsewhere.

You can also try opening an account at a different bank. Different banks use different verification methods and different reporting systems, so you may be approved at one bank even if another denied you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a minimum deposit to open a checking account online?

Most banks do not require a minimum deposit to open the account, but some do. Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo do not require a minimum. Ally, Charles Schwab, and Discover also do not. Check the bank's website or call before you apply if you want to confirm, because requirements can change.

Can I open a checking account online if I do not have a Social Security number?

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you can open a checking account with a valid visa or passport and an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. Some banks accept this; others do not. Call the bank before you apply to confirm they will accept an ITIN.

What if I do not have a photo ID?

Most banks require a photo ID to open an account online. If you do not have one, you will need to visit a branch in person with alternative documents like a passport, visa, or state-issued ID card. Some banks may accept other forms of identification; call ahead to ask.

Can I open a joint checking account online?

Yes, but the process is slower. Both account holders must verify their identity, which usually means both must be present for a video call or in-person visit. Some banks let you open the account online and add the second person later, which speeds up the initial process.

How long does it take to get a debit card after I open the account online?

Most banks mail a debit card within five to seven business days of opening the account. Some banks offer a temporary digital card you can use immediately in your phone's digital wallet while you wait for the physical card to arrive. Ask the bank during the application process if this option is available.